European Tour chief executive George O'Grady said: "Any tournament is disappointed not to have Graeme McDowell in its ranks.

"But the BMW PGA Championship still boasts a superb field including four former world No.1s - Luke Donald, Rory McIlroy, Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer, the latter of course fresh from his victory in the Players Championship at Sawgrass.

"I very much appreciated Graeme taking the time to phone me personally to tell me he wouldn't be at Wentworth, but the fact that he wants to spend time with Kristin, who will not be able to travel for the next three months, is entirely understandable.

"We wish them both well and look forward to seeing Graeme back in action in the championship in future years."